Banana Peels: The Surprising Ingredient You’ve Been Throwing Away

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ByHeather Schiefelbein

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Food waste is an ongoing challenge, but with a little creativity, you can turn what you once thought of as scraps into delicious and nutritious dishes. One often overlooked ingredient is the banana peel. Typically discarded without a second thought, banana peels are actually packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and essential minerals. By incorporating banana peels into your cooking, you not only reduce food waste but also add a sustainable twist to your meals. Here are three unique banana peel recipes that transform these scraps into culinary delights.

Why Use Banana Peels?

Banana peels are edible, nutritious, and versatile, offering a great way to reduce waste while adding a unique touch to your meals. By incorporating banana peels into your cooking, you contribute to a more sustainable kitchen and discover new flavors along the way.

Try these recipes and take a step toward a zero-waste kitchen, turning scraps into delicious culinary experiences. For more inspiration, check out our article on Culinary Upcycling: Transforming Food Scraps into Delicious Dishes.

1. Banana Peel Curry: A Sustainable and Flavorful Dish

Inspired by traditional South Asian cooking methods, Banana Peel Curry turns this humble waste product into a flavorful and nutrient-rich meal. Banana peels are cooked with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, creating a dish that pairs perfectly with rice or flatbread.

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe banana peels, cleaned and chopped into small pieces (use organic bananas if possible)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Banana Peels: Wash the banana peels thoroughly under running water to remove any residue. Trim the ends and cut the peels into small, bite-sized pieces. If the peels feel tough, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften.
  2. Heat the Oil and Temper the Spices: Heat the vegetable or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to sizzle and pop for a few seconds.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chili (if using). Sauté until the onions are golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the Spices: Stir in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder (if using). Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
  5. Cook the Banana Peels: Add the chopped banana peels to the pan and toss to coat with the spices. Cook for about 5 minutes until the peels start to soften.
  6. Add the Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes and cook until they blend with the spices, about 5 minutes.
  7. Add Coconut Milk and Simmer: Stir in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry cook for 10-15 minutes until the banana peels are tender.
  8. Season and Garnish: Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with salt. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
  9. Serve: Serve the curry hot with steamed rice, naan, or any flatbread.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 180
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 3g

2. Banana Peel Cake: A Sweet, Sustainable Treat

Banana peels can add moisture, flavor, and nutrients to baked goods, making them an excellent addition to desserts. This Banana Peel Cake is a moist, flavorful treat that reduces food waste while providing a unique twist on a classic dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe banana peels, cleaned and chopped (use organic bananas if possible)
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Banana Peels: Wash the banana peels thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. Boil the peels in water for 10 minutes to soften, then drain and blend into a smooth puree.
  2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the Eggs, Vanilla, and Banana Mixtures: Mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, banana peel puree, and mashed bananas until combined.
  5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
  6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
  7. Fold in Nuts or Chocolate Chips (Optional): Gently fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips if using.
  8. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool and Serve: Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 12 servings):

  • Calories: 220
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g

3. Banana Peel “Pulled Pork” Sandwiches

For a savory, smoky twist on barbecue, banana peels mimic the texture of pulled pork in this vegan-friendly recipe. It’s a fun and sustainable way to enjoy a comfort food classic.

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe banana peels (yellow with no black spots)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Buns of your choice
  • Coleslaw (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Banana Peels: Wash the peels, scrape off any remaining banana, and slice into thin strips.
  2. Cook the Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the onions until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Season the Peels: Add the banana peels, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir to coat.
  4. Add Sauces: Stir in the barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the peels are tender.
  5. Assemble Sandwiches: Serve on buns with coleslaw for added crunch.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 150
  • Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 2g

4. Crispy Banana Peel Bacon

Who knew that banana peels could replace bacon? This vegan alternative delivers smoky, crispy goodness without the meat. Perfect for breakfast or adding a crunchy element to sandwiches, salads, or even your favorite pasta.

Ingredients:

  • 4 banana peels, washed and scraped clean
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Peels: Clean the peels, removing any remaining banana residue, and slice them into bacon-like strips.
  2. Marinate: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, maple syrup, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add the banana peel strips and let them marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb all the smoky flavors.
  3. Cook: Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Place the marinated peels in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn crispy and browned.
  4. Enjoy: Serve your banana peel bacon hot with breakfast favorites like avocado toast, scrambled eggs, or in a BLT sandwich.

This recipe brings a fun twist to classic bacon while keeping it plant-based and eco-friendly.

As an author for CyrusRamsey.com, I specialize in interviewing restaurant owners to uncover the unique stories behind their culinary creations. Through these in-depth conversations, I dive into diverse culinary cultures and traditions, bringing fresh insights to my readers. I am dedicated to researching the most accurate and up-to-date information, ensuring my articles are rich, authentic, and informative for both modern food lovers and those who appreciate the classic, old-fashioned ways of cooking. I strive to create content that offers a little something for everyone, from seasoned foodies to kids who love joining us in the kitchen. Blending current trends with timeless techniques, I aim to make my writing relatable and engaging, whether I’m exploring a trendy eatery or revisiting beloved recipes. My goal is to provide an inclusive, enjoyable reading experience that leaves readers inspired to try something new.

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